Because Zobrist is a switch-hitter, Maddon was intent on finding ways to get him into games.

"We just thought by giving him multiple positions, that was his best avenue to get to the major leagues," Maddon said. "Of course the player has to concede and say, 'I'm on board. I like this. I can do this,' and he did."

And he continues to do for the Cubs — whether in the field or in the batting order — after coming to the team after winning the World Series with the Royals last season.

The Eureka, Ill., native has played every position in his career except pitcher and catcher. He has spent the most time at second base, with 707 regular-season games there. Right field is his second-most familiar position with 327 appearances.

He also has batted in every spot in the order. Maddon said a stint in the minor leagues early in Zobrist's career resulted in a changed left-handed batting stance, which resulted in more power.

Zobrist, a three-time All-Star, has seen his walks go up and his strikeouts go down during that span. He hit .272 with 18 home runs and 76 RBIs to go with an .831 OPS this season.

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"It's pretty amazing to see a guy turning 35 continuing to get better doing it the right way," Epstein said earlier this season. "He's everything we asked for in terms of really consistent professional at-bats, playing the game hard, being a great teammate, helping us win in so many different ways. He has been phenomenal."